Return of Rome's Ospitale S. Francesca Romana

The Ospitale S. Francesca Romana, a 14th-century lodging house designed originally as a refuge for the sick, elderly and poor, has been relaunched as a new space combining culture with tourism.

Located in the heart of the capital's Trastevere neighbourhood, the mediaeval complex dates to 1300 and has been restored thanks to the S. Francesca Romana Foundation and the Floridi Doria Pamphilj Trust.

The restoration project includes the Chiesa S. Maria in Cappella whose Baroque crucifixes by Francesco Borromini and Alessandro Algardi have been put back on public display.

The church space will be dedicated to holding concerts, theatrical events and exhibitions – including the current show Memorie##Estasi by artist Paola Romoli Venturi – as well as the establishment of Memorie#, an annual prize for contemporary art.

In addition the complex will house the Eitch Ripa Hostel, with a view over the Gardens of Donna Olimpia Pamphilj and its fountain designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini. Opening in May, the so-called “poshtel” will provide "chic but affordable" accommodation for up to 200 young people.